Numismatic

1812 Bust Half Dollar Fine

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This silver half dollar from 1812 offers a fascinating window into early American coinage. Struck in Philadelphia during a pivotal year in United States history, the coin contains 0.3868 troy ounces of silver, with a purity of 0.8924. This specific piece survives in Fine condition, showing the honest wear of a coin that likely circulated widely in the young republic. The design, created by John Reich, showcases a classic depiction of Lady Liberty on the obverse. Shown in profile, she wears a cap inscribed with the word LIBERTY, with the date 1812 positioned below her portrait. This imagery captures the artistic style of the era, presenting a powerful symbol of the nation's foundational ideals. On the reverse, a detailed eagle takes center stage. The bird is depicted with a protective shield across its chest, gripping a cluster of arrows and an olive branch in its talons. Surrounding the central image, the inscriptions include the denomination indicated as 50 C. and portions of the traditional motto, PLURIBUS UNUM, celebrating the unity of the states.